Rustic Fricassée Québec-Style

Quebec-Style Fricassée Template

In Quebec, a fricassée is a rustic, comforting dish that evolved from French culinary traditions. Historically, "fricassée" originates from France and refers to a dish where meat (often poultry or veal) is sautéed and then stewed in a white or light sauce. However, in Quebec cuisine, the term took on a more practical and resourceful meaning.

History of Fricassée in Quebec

• A Dish of Ingenuity: In rural Quebec, fricassée became a way to repurpose leftovers—typically combining leftover meat, potatoes, vegetables, and aromatic herbs into a one-pan meal.

• French Influence: The concept of slow-cooked, flavorful meals using simple, accessible ingredients aligns with French-Canadian cooking, where resourcefulness was key.

• Popular in Sugar Shacks & Homes: Fricassée was often made during sugar season, when hearty, satisfying meals were needed for those working at the cabane à sucre. It was a go-to for families looking to stretch leftovers into something delicious.

• Regional Variations: Depending on the region, a Quebecois fricassée might include pork, beef, game meat, or even seafood, always paired with root vegetables, onions, and flavorful herbs like thyme, bay leaf, or parsley.

Base Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter (or lard for a more traditional flavor)

• 1 onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 ½ to 2 cups cooked meat, shredded or diced (pork, beef, chicken, or game)

• 3-4 medium potatoes, cubed

• 1 cup raw vegetables, diced (carrots, celery, bell peppers, etc.)

• ½ cup broth or gravy (to moisten and enhance flavors)

• 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, parsley, or bay leaf)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Optional: A dash of vinegar or Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor

Instructions:

1. Sauté aromatics & raw vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and raw vegetables. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.

2. Add meat & potatoes: Stir in the cooked meat and cubed potatoes, letting them brown slightly for extra flavor.

3. Incorporate herbs & broth: Mix in the dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Pour in a bit of broth or gravy to keep the mixture moist and flavorful.

4. Simmer & blend flavors: Let everything cook together for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.

5. Serve hot, with fresh bread or homemade pickles for a true Quebecois touch!

💡 Variation Ideas:

• Add a fried or poached egg on top for a hearty breakfast version.

• Mix in some cheese curds just before serving for a poutine-inspired twist.

• Use duck confit for an elevated take on this rustic dish.